‘Religious Freedom’ Law Advances in West Virginia with Democratic Support – VIDEO

The bill passed 72-26 with the support of 15 Democrats. Seven Republican reps voted against the legislation. Proponents say it protects freedoms to express religious beliefs unless the state has a “compelling interest.”

“There are those among us who are intolerant of those of us who hold those beliefs and cherish that connection we have to God and our religion. And it’s those people that need to understand that we have rights too and first among them is the right to exercise our religion.”

However, according to Metro News, opponents say the legislation sanctions discrimination and various business interests – including Charleston’s Marriott hotel – have voiced opposition.

Delegate Shawn Fluharty said the bill would discourage companies with anti-discrimination policies from coming to West Virginia. Fluharty also denounced the bill on Twitter.

The bill will now move to the Senate but the outcome is unclear. Citing the case of Indiana – which is thought to have lost around $60 million from businesses who opted to move conventions elsewhere because of a similar law – West Virginia Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin said he’d have to consider a veto.